Draft Insider: New NFL Mock Draft, QB Portal Rumors Swirl, Boise State Prospect Declares, Gary Zauner Interview & More
Who's in? Who's out? Another week and another pair of signal-callers who appear to be headed back to school for 2026. Plus, we rub our crystal ball for the latest NFL Mock Draft prognostication.
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DRAFT INSIDER: NCAA WEEK 13 MARQUEE MATCHUPS
No.15 USC TROJANS (8-2) at No.9 OREGON DUCKS (9-1)
Is this Lincoln Riley’s ‘get back’ game? Not since 2017 have the Trojans been ranked inside the top ten. With five starting signal-callers currently employed by the NFL, pro evaluators will be sure to have a close eye on USC quarterback Jayden Maiava who squares up against Oregon rifleman Dante Moore.
Our USC Trojans NFL Draft Watch Report, features 17 draft-eligible prospects, including four in-depth scouting reports, plus five players to keep an eye on for 2027 and beyond, along with our Global Prospect Tracker. Each player is listed with verified measurements and draft projections.
Our Oregon Ducks NFL Draft Watch Report, is loaded with 23 draft-eligible prospects, including 12 in-depth player evaluations, along with verified measurements and projections for each player.
No.22 MISSOURI TIGERS (7-3) at No.8 OKLAHOMA SOONERS (8-2)
The Sooners are on the brink of making the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2019 after their upset win over Alabama a week ago. However, Oklahoma must first fend off Missouri before a season finale at LSU. Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer could have an opportunity for a deep run on the national stage.
Our Missouri NFL Draft Watch Report, features 10 draft-eligible prospects, plus two in-depth scouting reports, along with verified measurements and projections.
Our Oklahoma Sooners NFL Draft Watch Report, features 21 draft-eligible prospects, plus 13 in-depth player evaluations, verified measurements and projections, in addition to video analysis.
BOISE STATE OT KAGE CASEY DECLARES FOR THE DRAFT
Boise State junior offensive tackle Kage Casey (photo: Boise State Athletics) plans to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, according to Broncos head coach Spencer Danielson.
“We don’t do senior night with guys that aren’t seniors, no different with Ashton Jeanty,” Danielson said on Thursday. “We all knew at the end of (last) season that he was going to move on to the NFL. Same with Kage. He’s a redshirt junior but he’s going to go be an NFL draft pick five months from now. He’s not going to go through our senior night stuff but I’m writing him a letter and going through some of these things to enjoy this moment, because we know it’s his last time.”
With 38 consecutive starts at tackle, Casey is considered one of the premier prospects at his position and is currently the No.15 rated draft-eligible offensive tackle, according to NFL Draft Bible. After paving the way for Jeanty to emerge as a first round selection, it’s not out of the realm that Casey could also creep up into first round territory once the dust clears. Boise State could have a second underclassmen declare, as alluded to by Danielson.
“Ty Benfield, there’s a really good shot that he declares (for the draft), too. We’re going to walk that path with him and his family here in a couple weeks, and we’ll see where that goes.” For more on the Boise State Broncos top prospects, including a complete scouting report on Casey, click here.
In other draft-related news, seventh-year senior quarterback DeQequan Finn has left the Miami-Ohio program to concentrate on his preparation for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
LIVE SHOW — SATURDAY 10AM ET: NFL DRAFT WATCH SHOW
Each week, All Access Football founder Ric Serritella, along with former NFL, CFL and XFL scout Russ Lande preview the marque matchups in college football with a keen look at top prospects for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Plus, we have our ear to the ground with the latest draft buzz rumblings. The All Access Football NFL Draft Watch Show airs live 10:00am eastern time every Saturday. Bringing you the names you need to know first, since 2002.
Follow along with the show! In this episode, we shine the spotlight on some schools who may not make bowl games and whose season is winding down. Match ups covered include:
MINNESOTA GOPHERS (6-4) at NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS (5-5)
Our Minnesota Gophers NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 10 draft-eligible prospects.
Our Northwestern Wildcats NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 12 draft-eligible prospects.
KANSAS JAYHAWKS (5-5) at IOWA STATE CYCLONES (6-4)
Our Kansas Jayhawks NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 11 draft-eligible prospects.
Our Iowa State Cyclones NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 14 draft-eligible prospects.
DUKE BLUE DEVILS (5-5) at NORTH CAROLINA TAR HEELS (4-6)
Our Duke Blue Devils NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 11 draft-eligible prospects.
Our North Carolina Tar Heels NFL Draft Watch Report, includes 15 draft-eligible prospects.
SPORTS RAGE PODCAST: LATEST NEWS ON NFL, NCAA, CFL, NFL DRAFT & MORE
DRAFT INSIDER: PORTAL RUMORS SURROUND QUARTERBACKS
*[EDITOR’S NOTE]: Scroll down below for our latest NFL Mock Draft …
The QB Class of 2026 could dwindle down to a few handful of declarations as we near the new year. This amidst the latest reports which have surfaced surrounding quarterbacks LaNorris Sellers of South Carolina and Sam Leavitt of Arizona State.
Much was expected from Sellers, who guided the Gamecocks to nine victories a year ago, flashing alluring dual-threat tools. However, this season has gone sinister, as South Carolina is 3-7, with just one win in the SEC. The offensive line has collapsed and so too has the confidence of Sellers, with the latest debacle coming this past Saturday, entering the halftime locker room with a 30-3 lead over Texas A&M and departing College Station with a 31-30 defeat at the hands of the Aggies. Sellers was sacked four times and threw one interception.
On the season, Sellers has been sacked 37 times in 10 games, the most of any FBS quarterback in 2025. His completion percentage is down from 65.6% a year ago, to 60.2% this year, with an alarming amount of poor decisions for a supposed ‘franchise signal-caller.’ He has passed for 1,782 yards, nine touchdowns and six interceptions, while adding 186 rushing yards and three more scores via the ground.
Rumors intensified this week, with Sellers being asked about his future during the postgame. “When the time comes to make those decisions, it’s just gonna be there,” he said. “Everybody’s got decisions to make but I plan on being here because I’m here right now.”
The NFL remains an option but clearly there is work to be done in the development of Sellers. He would benefit mightily from returning another season to refine some of the accuracy woes that have plagued him throughout much of the year. He would likely command a significant payday in the transfer portal and reportedly turned down an NIL offer for $8M this past offseason.
“Obviously as a head coach, if I wasn’t having conversations with players throughout the season in regards to their futures ... you got guys that have NFL decisions to make, and a lot of that,” South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer stated. “I don’t want to speak for everyone. There’ll be a time for all of that.”
While the future surrounding Sellers remains a mystery, it very well in fact could be, ‘A Sellers Market.’ Currently, he ranks as the No.4 rated draft-eligible quarterback, according to NFL Draft Bible.
As for Leavitt, speculation has circulated of his intent to explore the portal since it was announced that he would miss the remainder of the season due to a foot injury. In fact, CAA has reportedly begun exploring high-end opportunities on the behalf of Leavitt, according to On3.com. Meanwhile, Miami and Texas Tech have surfaced as destinations of preference, per The Athletic, with Indiana and LSU also mentioned as candidates. Leavitt is expected to command an NIL deal north of $3M if/when he does enter the portal on January 2nd, which is expected to be out of the ‘price-range’ for ASU.
Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham nonchalantly avoided the question when asked about the future of Leavitt. “I’m focused on Colorado,” he said. “We came out on fire this week [in practice]. I don’t listen to the outside noise. It’s November and we’re in the hunt [Big 12 championship game].”
In seven games this season, Leavitt battled through injuries to throw for 1,628 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions, completing 60.2% of his passes, while adding 306 yards and five scores via the ground. Last year, he led Arizona State to the Big 12 Championship and College Football Playoff appearance. Currently, Leavitt is the No.15 rated draft-eligible quarterback, according to NFL Draft Bible.
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NFL DRAFT PREPARATIONS IN PITTSBURGH UNDERWAY
The 2026 NFL Draft is now 153 days away as of today’s post and plans for the host city of Pittsburgh are ahead of schedule. As part of securing the prestigious NFL event, the city agreed to build a 4-acre, multipurpose green space in the heart of the Cultural District. The site is set to include a wide range of public amenities such as a large playground (the only one in downtown), a pickleball court, pop-up food and beverage vendors and of course, a massive stage, “large enough for a full symphony orchestra,” which will serve as the backdrop for draft festivities. The foundation of the stage will be poured next week, with infrastructure to be installed in December and the canopy next spring. Also to be completed in December will be the paving for the “garden walkway” that will be the new version of Eighth Street. The ribbon cutting for the new project is scheduled for next April, in advance of Pittsburgh hosting the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23-25. As part of the pre-draft makeover, the city will also renovate Market Square and the associated riverfront parks along the Allegheny. Known for bringing an economic boom to the host city, the 2025 NFL Draft generated a total economic impact of over $104.7M statewide and $72.9M in Brown County, according to the Green Bay Press Gazette. (photo courtesy: WTAE)
MORE BUSINESS OF FOOTBALL: INSIDE THE LEAGUE FRIDAY WRAP [FREE]
SCOUTING THE LEAGUE: GARY ZAUNER, SPECIAL TEAMS ZORO
Great players, great teams and those willing to push the envelope is what makes special teams so special. Renowned special teams coach Gary Zauner has always been one of those men. Scouting The League hosts Neil Stratton and Rodrik David welcome him to the show for an enlightening conversation covering his journey into special teams, fascinating football tales, what it takes to achieve and sustain NFL success and so much more. You don’t want to miss this! Be sure to follow Coach Zauner (@CoachZauner): CoachZaunersLockerRoom.com
*Programming Alert: Tune-in to the AAF NFL Draft Watch Show — Saturday 10am ET
2026 NFL DRAFT QUICK LINK REFERENCES
Be sure to check back periodically for constant updates, as we count you down to the 2026 NFL Draft with boots on the ground coverage of the all-star game circuit, NFL Scouting Combine and pro day trails.
NFL DRAFT RANKINGS: QB | RB | WR | TE | OT | OG | C | DT | ER | LB | CB | S
2026 NFL MOCK DRAFT [THANKSGIVING EDITION]
PICK | TEAM | PLAYER | POSITION | SCHOOL
Tennessee Titans: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State: With the franchise quarterback of the offense in tow, the Titans have an opportunity to nab a new quarterback of the defense with the supreme talent of Reese, Who would create a much-needed second-level presence.
New York Giants: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State: While weapons are needed on offense, the GMen would be better served to add another blue-chip prospect and continue to elevate the defense with a playmaker on the back end in the caliber of Downs.
Cleveland Browns: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama: Based on everything we’ve seen thus far to this point, the Browns are expected to be in the market for a signal-caller once again and could have an opportunity to select the best of the bunch.
New Orleans Saints: Dante Moore, QB, Oregon: Recent reports out of Eugene have indicated that Moore will return for another season but in what is considered to be a down year for first round quarterbacks, Moore could seek to capitalize on the moment.
New York Jets: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana: With Justin Fields benched this week in favor of Tyrod Taylor, it’s safe to say the Jets will be in search of a quarterback this offseason. The alluring Mendoza has flashed starter traits but does come with limitations.
Las Vegas Raiders: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah: The Raiders offensive line has performed atrociously and heavy reinforcements are needed at all spots. Las Vegas should make upgrading the unit a top priority and the selection of Fano would do just that.
Washington Commanders: Reuben Bain, ER, Miami: It should be interesting to see how much of an issue the arm length of Bain comes into play as we inch closer to the draft. Despite his lack of length, the Hurricanes edge rusher has wreaked havoc in the backfield all year.
Los Angeles Rams (via Falcons): Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU: Adding a lockdown cornerback such as Delane would only solidify what is already a top-ranked defense. This pick was sacrificed by the Falcons in the 2025 NFL Draft by trading up for James Pearce Jr.
Cincinnati Bengals: David Bailey, ER, Texas Tech: The Bengals have managed to satisfy terms to keep Trey Hendrickson at bay the past few years but this marriage appears tending towards separation. In steps Bailey, who would compensate for getting pressure on the quarterback.
Arizona Cardinals: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah: Questions remain at quarterback beyond this season, with Kyler Murray seemingly falling out of favor, as the team presses forward with Jacoby Brissett. Regardless of who is taking snaps, better protection is mandatory.
Miami Dolphins: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami: This is a franchise currently undergoing a leadership transition, so it’s hard to know who will be calling the shots. One thing for certain is that Miami needs to get tougher in the trenches, playmakers can be added elsewhere.
Minnesota Vikings: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas: Much like Anthony Barr, the versatile Hill Jr. would bring a playmaker mentality at the linebacker position with his ability to play off-ball, or get after the quarterback. He seems to fit the defensive identity that the Vikings need to get back to.
Dallas Cowboys: Keldric Faulk, ER, Auburn: Dallas is still in need of an outside edge rusher after parting ways with Micah Parsons. While they have since added new pieces, the selection of Faulk would help to fill a huge void.
Baltimore Ravens: TJ Parker, ER, Clemson: The surging Ravens could capture the AFC North and make a playoff run, so it’s unlikely to see them selecting this high come April. However, gaining the services of a pass-rusher is at the top of their team needs.
Kansas City Chiefs: Jordan Love, RB, Notre Dame: It’s hard to believe that Patrick Mahomes will be entering his 10th NFL season next year, alleviating some of the burden for him to carry the offense should be a welcomed move. Leaning on Love could help preserve Mahomes in the long run.
Houston Texans: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson: A top-rated prospect, Woods could certainly wind up going much higher but in this scenario he lands in the Texans’ laps and would be an immediate foundational block in the middle of the defense.
Carolina Panthers: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State: There has been positive returns on this year’s first round pick Tetairoa McMillan but reinforcements are needed. Pairing him with Tate would give the Panthers a bonafide one-two tandem, something they’ve sorely lacked.
Detroit Lions: Cashius Howell, ER, Texas A&M: The Lions will be hunting for another pass-rusher to team with Aidan Hutchinson. Matching Howell up on the opposite side could create chaos for opposing offenses and keep offensive coordinators up late at night.
Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville Jaguars): Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama: After taking Simpson earlier in the mock, Cleveland doubles down on the Crimson Tide pool and snags his blindside protector to assume the same role.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon: When healthy, the Bucs own a potent trio of talented wideouts. Unfortunately, they have yet to all be healthy at the same time. Injecting Sadiq into the equation could take the offense to a next level.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Jordan Tyson, WR, Arizona State: It would seem hard to gameplan for a receiving duo of DK Metcalf and Tyson, both of whom are lengthy, speedy and can create after the catch.
Los Angeles Chargers: Domani Jackson, CB, Alabama: The Chargers need another cornerback and Jackson fits the physical profile the team craves, as he is a solid man defender in pass coverage but also a willing contributor to stopping the run.
San Francisco 49ers: Chris Bell, WR, Louisville: A well-built receiver with incredible burst, Bell is a bigger version of Deebo Samuel with his ability to create with the ball in his hands. The way injuries have ravaged the wide out corps, San Francisco would be smart to invest in another.
Dallas Cowboys (via Packers): AJ Harris, CB, Penn State: As part of the Parsons compensation, Dallas will have an additional first round pick. The secondary has slipped to a new low-point this season and Harris can help stop the bleeding.
Chicago Bears: Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa: Despite an offseason focused on rebuilding the offensive line, Chicago should look to continue to stockpile building blocks up front, as it will only benefit the long-term development of Caleb Williams.
Buffalo Bills: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia: The oft-injured Matt Milano can no longer be relied upon as a healthy contributor and Allen can provide the durability, along with consistency needed to perform at a high level immediately.
Seattle Seahawks: Nyck Harbor, WR, South Carolina: Sure to be one of the most polarizing prospects come April, the former track star possesses a rare combination of size and speed which could translate into him being one of the premier prospects in this year’s crop.
New York Jets (via Indianapolis Colts): Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama: After acquiring an additional first round pick in their trade of Sauce Gardner, the Jets would be wise to add a weapon for their new franchise quarterback chosen earlier in this mock.
Los Angeles Rams: LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina: Rumored to be headed into the portal, Sellers is the wild card of the draft. Did you see what Sean McVay did with Bryce Perkins in the preseason? Imagine what he could turn Sellers into after a year or two of development.
New England Patriots: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington: With Drake Maye taking a huge step forward this season, the next phase of lifting the offense to new heights requires more options to throw to in the passing attack.
Philadelphia Eagles: Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State: Considered to be the top guard prospect eligible for the draft, Ioane fits the Eagles mold and would help fortify what has been an uncharacteristically shaky offensive line unit at times, impacted by injury.
Denver Broncos: Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina: An ascending prospect, Cisse has been one of the lone bright spots for the Gamecocks and has allowed just seven completions all season.